Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) In Liverpool, Merseyside

How does it work?

SLT is directed at the trabecular meshwork, the drainage mechanism of the eye that keeps the fluid pressure and balance in check. Using a low-energy laser, the process targets certain cells within the trabecular meshwork while sparing the surrounding tissue. By enhancing fluid outflow and inducing a biological reaction, this effectively lowers IOP.

Benefits

Since SLT is a non-invasive technique, no incisions or sutures are needed.
The procedure usually takes just a few minutes and is not very painful.
Many patients have a significant decrease in intraocular pressure (IOP), which aids in the management of glaucoma and preserves eyesight.
Following the operation, the majority of patients are able to return to their regular activities right away.
SLT offers a versatile glaucoma treatment approach that may be repeated as needed.

The SLT Treatment Procedure

To ascertain if SLT is suitable for your situation, a thorough eye exam and initial consultation are performed. Before the surgery, eye drops are used to the affected eye to numb it and, in some situations, to narrow the pupil and lessen inflammation.

During the procedure

A dedicated laser machine will be seated in front of you. In order to assist concentrate the laser on the trabecular meshwork, the doctor will implant a lens in your eye. The trabecular meshwork is exposed to brief pulses of the laser. Although there may be light flashes and clicking noises throughout the process, it usually doesn't hurt. It normally takes ten to fifteen minutes for each eye to complete the operation.

Post-Procedure

To make sure there are no difficulties right away, you will be watched for a brief period of time after the treatment. To stop inflammation, a doctor may give anti-inflammatory eye drops. To check on your IOP and make sure the therapy is working, a follow-up visit will be set up.

Side Effects

Although SLT is usually safe, there are a few possible adverse effects to be mindful of:

Moderate pain
Following the surgery, some patients may feel some moderate discomfort or a gritty feeling in their eye. This usually goes away in a few days.
Inflammation
Anti-inflammatory eye drops are often administered since inflammation is a potential adverse effect.
Temporary Increase in IOP
Medication is often used to treat individuals who have a brief increase in IOP.
Temporary Blurred Vision
Following the operation, some patients may suffer temporary foggy vision.

For the management of open-angle glaucoma and reduction of intraocular pressure, selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a useful non-invasive therapy option. It provides a rapid, easy, and repeatable fix that requires little time to recover from. Get in touch with us to discuss about SLT if you have glaucoma and want to know whether it’s the best therapy for you.

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Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)